Shankara ( philosopher )

Shankara, also known as Adi Shankaracharya, was an influential Indian philosopher and theologian who lived in the early 8th century. He is best known for consolidating the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the idea of non-duality, suggesting that the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. Shankara's teachings aimed to reconcile various Hindu philosophies and he is renowned for his commentaries on ancient scriptures, advocating for a mystical understanding of existence that transcends illusion and promotes spiritual liberation (moksha). His work continues to impact Indian philosophy and spirituality profoundly.